The new members of the Arts Council make their opening bows today as they formally take up their posts.
The new members of the Arts Council include actor Alan Stanford, musician Aibhlín McCrann, new deputy chair Maurice Foley, businessman John Crumlish and artist Jaki Irvine.
Minister for the Arts John O'Donoghue will be joined by chair of the Arts Council Olive Braiden and council director Mary Cloake for the formal announcement of the 13th new board.
Charged with promoting theatre, music, art and literature, the 12-man body will have control of millions of euro in funding for individual artists and groups.
The council supports all aspects of the arts, in Irish and in English, through direct awards and bursaries, activities and facilities such as arts centres and festivals and community arts.